How Adopting Senior and Special Needs Cats Transformed One Family’s Life

For over seven years, a family has been sharing their experiences with special needs rescue cats online, focusing on their care and the rare conditions they face. What started as a lighthearted cat Instagram account, TummyandGummy, has grown into a meaningful platform that connects with a wide audience. While Toby and Leo are the current stars of their page, their story began with an unexpected encounter with a senior cat named Herbie. ## The Journey Begins with Herbie The family’s journey into cat rescue began when they adopted Herbie, a sixteen-year-old cat whose elderly owner had passed away. Herbie’s sweet face and story captured their hearts, and his playful personality brought brightness to their home. Sadly, Herbie’s time with them was short-he passed away just five months after adoption, leaving a void that inspired the family to adopt another senior or special needs cat. This led them to Toby and Quinton, a bonded pair rescued by the RSPCA. The two cats had been found hiding together in a multi-cat household and were in need of medical attention. Quinton had severe dental issues, leading to the removal of all his teeth, while Toby was diagnosed with Feline cutaneous asthenia, also known as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), a genetic collagen defect that causes fragile skin and joint hypermobility. ## Navigating Life with EDS Caring for Toby and Quinton was a learning experience. EDS has no cure, but with careful management-such as preventing injuries and providing a safe environment-cats with the condition can live fulfilling lives. It took time for the cats to adjust, but their personalities eventually shone through. Toby, in particular, became a playful and affectionate companion, chasing bouncy balls and always on the lookout for snacks. The family’s social media presence grew organically, with Toby’s unique appearance and charming personality resonating with followers. The name Tummy and Gummy came from Quinton’s toothless grin and Toby’s love for tummy rubs. However, their joy was tempered by tragedy when Quinton was diagnosed with oral squamous cell carcinoma during the COVID-19 lockdown. Despite his illness, Quinton remained affectionate until the end, leaving Toby heartbroken. ## A New Beginning with Leo To help Toby cope with the loss of his best friend, the family adopted Leo, another EDS cat. Leo had started life as a stray and was initially treated for flea allergy dermatitis before being diagnosed with EDS. While Toby and Leo took time to bond, their friendship eventually grew into a close brotherhood. Despite their differences in personality-Toby prefers distance while Leo loves close affection-they spend much of their time cuddling and grooming each other. ## The Challenges of EDS and Beyond Both Toby and Leo have EDS, but their needs vary. Toby experiences flare-ups of itchy skin ripples due to mast cell activation syndrome, while Leo has a sensitive digestive system. The family has learned to adapt, researching treatments and advocating for their cats’ needs. Their social media platform has become a resource for others, helping to diagnose EDS in both humans and animals and connecting special needs cats with loving homes. ## A Legacy of Love and Advocacy The family’s journey has been filled with both joy and heartbreak. They have cared for multiple cats with EDS, including Chino, who had a severe case and required constant medical attention. Despite the challenges, the family remains committed to their mission, hoping to one day open their own sanctuary for cats in need. Their story is a testament to the transformative power of love and the profound impact that rescue cats can have on a family.